I am curious if I am understanding the only way a tenant in Texas has a right to withhold rent is if there is an amicable agreement between tenant and landlord or if the landlord fails to remedy a problem with the house that impacts the the safety and health of the tenants.I am trying to keep things simple and not complicated on this question. :)

Most cities would likely be best off with limited restrictions (limiting enforcement time & costs) other than enforcing any already existing health and safety laws.

i replace lockset during walkthru to start relationship with tennant with there safety in mind. i find it builds trust and shows you care about there safety

The Electrical Safety Authority has more information regarding this at www.esasafe.com. 

I spoke to the Office Assistant of safety and permits in NO earlier this afternoon.

This is providing all egress and safety codes were met.

Pigtown has some incentives associated with it from some local companies such as UMMC however I really see this area taking awhile to develop and some of the people I know who have purchased there regret it due to safety issues. 

My biggest concern is not having enough of a safety net for that second purchase. 

The equity in the home is the only safety net you have to buffer what will be negative cash flow long term.

I know most people say leverage into more units before paying off a unit as to not tie up funds (safety through numbers etc), but I like the idea of paying off 1 in 3 units owned.For marketing, it seems there are plenty of ways to find cash buyers for deals.